The Fire Ball X: Apocalypse

The Fire Ball initially grew out of the dear departed Madison news website Dane101, which had a creative sideline in events. But the Fire Ball's winter bacchanal of freaky delights outlived the website itself, offering a distinctive mix of dress-up dance party, burlesque show, and bizarro circus. (It's strange to think now that it started partially as a youthful and more affordable response to the Overture's swanky annual Frostiball benefit.) Each year has had a different theme, and this one is "Apocalypse"—probably because it's the 10th and final installment, and maybe also other stuff. DJ Boyfrrriend will be spinning throughout the evening, and performers include the Cycropia Aerial Dance company, Strongman Tulga and Mr. Spring, bellydancers, and a range of burlesque acts. —Scott Gordon